Apple Butter Old Fashioned Recipe: Timeless Taste

The classic Old Fashioned cocktail is beloved by many for its simplicity and depth of flavor. Yet, when we introduce the luscious, homemade Apple Butter to this iconic drink, we not only enhance its complexity but also give it a unique twist with a cozy autumnal charm. Here's how to create your very own Apple Butter Old Fashioned, ensuring each sip is an experience to remember.

Ingredients for Apple Butter Old Fashioned

Before you begin, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients:

• 2 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1 tbsp homemade or store-bought apple butter
• 1 tsp simple syrup (or to taste)
• 2 dashes of angostura bitters
• Orange peel
• Ice

Making the Apple Butter

If you choose to make your apple butter, here’s a simple recipe:

• 4 lbs of apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
• 2 cups of sugar
• 2 tsp of ground cinnamon
• ¹⁄₂ tsp of ground allspice
• ¹⁄₄ tsp of ground cloves
• Pinch of salt

1. Cook the Apples: In a large pot, combine apples with vinegar, sugar, and spices. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cooking for about 1 hour until the apples are very soft.
2. Puree and Cook Down: Puree the apples until smooth. Return to the pot and cook down over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens, approximately 30-45 minutes. Let it cool completely.
3. Store: Transfer the apple butter to sterilized jars. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three weeks, or you can preserve it through canning methods for longer shelf life.

🍏 Note: Making apple butter at home allows you to control the flavor profile, enhancing the complexity of your cocktail with the homemade touch.

Preparing the Cocktail

With your apple butter ready, you can proceed to mix your Apple Butter Old Fashioned:

1. In an old fashioned glass, combine the bourbon, apple butter, simple syrup, and bitters.
2. Stir: Add a large ice cube and stir gently to mix. Stirring helps to chill the drink and dilute it slightly, enhancing the flavors.
3. Express the Orange Peel: Take an orange peel and express the oils over the glass, then rub the peel around the rim of the glass. You can add the peel to the drink or discard it.

Optional Garnishes

• A cinnamon stick for added spice
• A dusting of nutmeg for a warm finish

Serving and Presentation

Present your Apple Butter Old Fashioned in a way that echoes the season:

• Serve the cocktail in a traditional old fashioned glass or tumbler.
• Consider decorating the glass with a rim of cinnamon sugar or a twist of orange and apple slice.
• If you’re hosting a gathering, set up a DIY station where guests can personalize their drink with various garnishes.

Exploring Variations

The versatility of the Old Fashioned allows for numerous variations. Here are a few to consider:

• Smoked Apple Butter Old Fashioned: Add a smoky depth by using a smoking gun or briefly torching an apple wood chip.
• Maple Syrup: Instead of simple syrup, use maple syrup for a different sweetness and added depth.
• Infused Bourbon: Infuse your bourbon with spices like cinnamon or cloves for an extra layer of flavor.

Creating an Apple Butter Old Fashioned not only celebrates the classic cocktail's heritage but also introduces a contemporary twist with the rich, sweet, and spiced notes of apple butter. This fusion offers a delightful taste journey through time, blending tradition with innovation. The balance of flavors, from the bourbon's robust character to the apple butter's smoothness, makes this drink a standout choice for those who appreciate the art of mixology. Enjoy this timeless cocktail with a modern twist, ideally in the company of friends, as each sip tells a story of tradition, creativity, and warmth.

What if I don’t like whiskey, can I use another spirit?

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While whiskey is traditional, you could try bourbon or rye as an alternative. Even rum or brandy can create a unique flavor profile with apple butter.

Can I make apple butter in advance?

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Absolutely! Apple butter can be made well in advance. Store it in sterilized jars in the fridge or preserve it through canning for months.

What is the best way to preserve apple butter?

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Canning is the most reliable method for long-term preservation. However, if you plan to consume it within a few weeks, keeping it refrigerated in airtight jars works well.

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